Cold temps, warm engines and good community on Charlie Lake for Ice-X

Cold temperatures in the North Peace often create opportunities for people to connect, Saturday, Feb. 7 was no exception, as curious community members gathered on the ice at Charlie Lake to witness Ice-X.

Peace Region Motor Sports Association held their annual Ice-X Event, transforming a section of frozen Charlie Lake into a racetrack that brings fast cars and flying snow.

Competitors spent their morning and afternoon sliding their vehicles which ranged from daily drivers to side-by-sides, around a marked course on the local fishing hole. 

Pushing vehicles to the limits in the winter conditions became fun as drivers had the opportunity to safely drive on ice and understand how to control slide and grip on slick roads. 

Competitors did not have to have access to a racecar, just courage and enthusiasm to try something newThis was the first round for the event, with the second round scheduled for February 21, and third round on March 8.

The event organizers charge $60 a day to race and there is a mandatory driver meeting at 10am, while drivers are also required to bring a helmet.

Volunteers and guests cheered from the sidelines as vehicles slid, drifted and motored around the track. Whether participants or people watching, there was something for everyone at the event.

People chatted before and after their heats were up, sharing stories and bringing kids up to the snowbanks to watch. Enthusiasts who came out to watch were also invited to take free ride-a-longs throughout the event to experience the thrill firsthand.  Events like these are what makes living in the North Peace so great. 

Even during cold temperatures there are people out volunteering their time and effort to put on fun and different events, while encouraging everyone to come out and participate. For more information regarding these events, you can reach out to PRMA through their Facebook page.

With decent weather, consistent competitors and lots of winter spirit, the ICE-X Event was a great day for the whole family.